Exploring the Role of Immersive Virtual Reality Simulation in Health Professions Education: Thematic Analysis

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Educational Technology
• Virtual Reality Simulation

Background:

• Limited literature exists on implementing immersive virtual reality (VR) simulation in health professions education.
• Best practices for the development of VR simulation technology are not yet established.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate the use and motivations of early adopters of immersive VR simulation in educational settings.
• Identify specific educational needs that VR simulation can address within health professions.
• Explore the role of VR simulation in advancing educational practices.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving semistructured interviews with 16 early adopters of VR simulation.
• Directed content analysis of interview data, guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology.

Main Results:

• Key themes identified include the focus on cognitive skills development, improved access to education, considerations for resource investment, and the balance of immersion.
• Findings clarify the intended applications of VR simulation in health professions education.
• Research questions were synthesized to guide future VR development and implementation best practices.

Conclusions:

• Immersive VR simulation is effective for teaching cognitive skills, broadening educational access, and providing diverse simulation scenarios.
• The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology framework was validated and modified to better explain VR simulation adoption in education.
• VR simulation fosters deep immersion and collaborative learning experiences, supporting educational goals.